This week the Boy Scouts of America ended its ban on gay adult troop leaders, two years after deciding to admit openly gay youth as members. The policy will not force church-sponsored troops to accept gay leaders. But some religious groups were critical, including the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Mormons. They are the largest Boy Scout sponsor in the country. Church officials said the decision conflicted with their doctrine and hinted at the possibility of starting a separate scouting group. About 20 percent of all Boy Scouts are Mormons, and 70 percent of all Boy Scout sponsors have religious affiliations.